Countless businesses and homeowners are in need of ceramic tile, marble flooring, durable slate, and porcelain materials for remodeling projects. These wall and flooring materials often vary in cost, depending on how rare and exclusive they are. For instance, Mexican or Italian marble and tile may cost more than ceramic materials made in the United States. Regardless of the materials you are interested in for your home improvement, shower remodeling or kitchen floor installation project, you should make a few inquiries prior to buying from a dealer or contractor. Ask some helpful questions before hiring a contractor or purchasing material from a dealer.

What types of decorative tile and glazed ceramic slate do you offer?
There are many types or ceramic tile and stone materials to choose from, so consider that taking some time to do research and find out what tile you prefer. You can also ask each dealer or contractor what types they offer.

Do you lay ceramic tile and assist with remodeling?
Some contractors and dealers may only sell you the materials for a home improvement project or kitchen remodeling job. This is why it is important to make this inquiry up front, if you need the contractor to install the tile for you.

How much does the ceramic tile, natural slate or marble materials cost?
The price is generally a concern for everyone. Be sure to get several quotes from different contractors and dealers in order to get the best deal.

Can you design and install tile or ceramic murals?
Many people want a tile mural in their home or the floor of their swimming pool. Not all contractors will be able to assist with a decorative project like this. So, you may have to ask around to find an expert.

Tile dealers may only sell tiles. Contractors generally install them. In some cases, the two may be the same company.

Professional tile installers may specialize, or may work on other remodeling and home improvement tactics. Companies may sell only standard ceramic, only porcelain, or all kinds of tiles. They may also sell slate or marble.

Murals are a particularly specialized area. Mural artists use small tiles to create a picture and may be hired by wealthy home owners or by companies. Even local governments may install a mural to brighten up an underpass or highlight a park. Most murals are ceramic or porcelain, with the colors created by glaze.

Most dealers or contractors sell both natural and glazed tiles. Interior designers often hire contractors to lay specific patterns of decorative tiles. In general, kitchens and bathrooms, including showers, require the same techniques. Pool tiling is, however, often a specialist operation. Pools need to be watertight and special glazes are often used. Most outdoor tiles are marble or porcelain.

Mexican and Italian tiles are generally used for decorative purposes. Some dealers specialize in one or both of these high quality products.

Contractors generally lay both walls and floors, but some may specialize in one or the other. Cheap plastic tiles and fake tiles such as patterned vinyl may also be sold by some dealers and contractors. Installation can be performed by the home owner, but is often best left to a professional as it is easy to get tiles crooked.

New tile walls and floors are constantly required by both new buildings and existing ones. Dealers and contractors tend to be affected, however, by economic cycles in the construction industry and home prices. New constructions may go down, however, at the same time that demand increases for remodeling and home improvement.